THIN AIR streeter: Amanda Buchko

What better way to escape the drama of your everyday life than by taking a break from it and indulging in someone else’s life story? You could read a biography, perhaps. Even better, pair that with a trip to the nearest park and you’re in for a treat…

That is where I found Amanda Buchko on a Monday evening, sitting under the shade of one of Munson Park’s old Elm trees. Munson Park is a popular place for many people living around Winnipeg’s beautiful River Heights area. While sipping a refreshing bottle of iced tea – one that would save her from the sizzling, hot day – she treated her wild side to a taste of I’m With the Band: Confessions of a Groupie by Pamela Des Barres.

Interviewee Amanda Buchko enjoying a VERY warm Monday with a book.



What is the book about?
“Pamela Ann Miller (Des Barres) tells the story of her life as a groupie in the late 60’s and early ’70’s. After graduating high school she moved from Reseda, California to the Los Angeles Sunset Strip. She was a member of the GTO’s, an all girl group formed by Frank Zappa, who she later became a nanny for. She had “affairs” with Keith Moon, Chris Hillman, Jim Morrison, Waylon Jennings, Mick Jagger and many others. I’m currently reading about her time with Jimmy Page.”

Why did you choose this book?
“I was browsing through Coles on my lunch to pass the time and picked this up in the Biography section. It was the only copy, and I love reading anything to do with the music industry. It also had quotes on the back from Robert Plant and Gene Simmons raving about Pamela, how could I resist?”

What sparked your love of reading?
“My Dad used to read to me every night before bed, starting when I was really young. We went through all the Little House books and anything else I could get my hands on.

I started to realize that reading a book was way more interesting than the stuff I was watching on television. Books have a way of pulling you in. I’ll get lost in a book and ignore anyone and everything around me.”

Is there anything you would like to add?
“TV has become such a necessity to people these days. They’ll have 200 channels and still complain there’s nothing on! Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy it as much as the next person, but pick up a damn book and exercise your mind!”

A new THIN AIR streeter takes place right on the streets of Winnipeg every week. Next time, we could be walking up to YOU and asking questions about your book selections. Be ready!

– Nicole Dola

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